Maple Leafs Already Being Accused of Tampering Amid Chayka Hiring

According to a report by Frank Seravalli of Hockey 247.com, in the lead-up to the Toronto Maple Leafs’ formal announcement of John Chayka as general manager, a rival NHL team raised a tampering concern with the league.

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The complaint alleged that individuals under contract with other organizations may have been contacted about potential roles on Chayka’s incoming staff without proper authorization—an action that would violate league rules. Specifically, it was one executive from the Los Angeles Kings, and another possible target from the Utah Mammoth.

The league looked into the matter and, to date, has found no wrongdoing.

Seravalli writes:

“Much of the league speculation over the weekend centered on a possible reunion between Chayka and former Coyotes employee Jake Goldberg, now the Los Angeles Kings’ senior director of hockey operations. There was also speculation Chayka intended to pursue Chase Glasberg, Utah’s manager of salary cap and hockey strategy. Glasberg is the son of Neil Glasberg, the agent for coaches and front office executives, who helped the Maple Leafs execute the search that landed on Chayka.”

According to multiple sources, the NHL reviewed the situation and ultimately determined the claim was unsubstantiated. The league informed Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment CEO Keith Pelley about the inquiry and later confirmed it was satisfied with the information provided, effectively closing the matter without discipline or further action.

Let the Drama Begin in Toronto

While no wrongdoing was found, the mere existence of the investigation shows how interesting and potentially problematic Chayka’s return to the NHL is going to be. His history—including a past suspension by commissioner Gary Bettman for improper dealings while with the Arizona Coyotes—has everyone watching much more closely than they would a typical GM.

Chayka’s efforts to assemble a new front office will be monitored, and whether fair or not, there will be a bit of guilty-until-proven-innocent going on with this hire. Even if no rules were ultimately broken, people will assume he’s capable and willing, given his past.

In the end, this is a non-issue, even if there is distrust among some NHL circles as Chayka begins his tenure in Toronto.

Next: Sundin Returns, Chayka Arrives — What This Really Means